Merrick Herald 11-13-2025

SNAP disruptions drive Cupboard donations

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

As delays and reductions in federal food assistance ripple across New York, the Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard is stepping up to meet growing demand from families struggling without their full Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

Millions of Americans have been affected by the recent disruptions to SNAP funding caused by the ongoing federal budget impasse. According to the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, the state has issued full SNAP benefits to all eligible households despite the uncertainty at the federal level. Those scheduled to receive benefits on Nov. 9–10 have already received them, while others will continue to get their funds throughout the week.

While state officials have managed to maintain benefits in the short term, local food pantries are preparing for a possible surge in need should the federal funding situation worsen.

Karin McMahon, one of the founders and coordinators of the Community Cupboard, said the effect on Long Island families was almost immediate. The pantry, which serves residents in the Bellmore and Merrick school districts, has seen an increase in the number of households seeking food assis -

tance.

“People almost immediately were like, ‘Oh my gosh, my SNAP benefits were cut off. I’m not sure what to do,’” McMahon said. “Well, we’re here to help.”

The number of families using the cupboard’s services each week has climbed from about 33 to 44, according to McMahon. She added that the organization also expects to provide Thanksgiving baskets to roughly 100 families this year.

Despite the spike in need, McMahon said community generosity has been extraordinary. Scout troops, schools, and local organizations have launched food drives to keep shelves stocked. A summer volleyball tournament organized by State Sen. Steve Rhoads provided a timely boost in August, restocking the pantry before the start of the school year.

“When we come back from the summer, our shelves are pretty close to bare,” McMahon said. “So, when we

have something big like that at the end of the summer, we really need the boost in product to be able to give to the people.”

The cupboard’s volunteers have also stepped up in large numbers. Teachers, administrators, and students have been sorting and packaging donations, and McMahon said she currently has several Girl Scout troops scheduled to help in the coming weeks.

Donations have generally kept pace with demand, though some items are harder to maintain in stock. Cleaning products, laundry detergent, and protein-rich foods are among the most requested, along with kid-friendly snacks.

“Everything is running out a little more quickly,” McMahon noted.

For residents wishing to help, donations can be dropped off at Brookside during security hours. Bins are set up inside the entrance, and large donations can be unloaded with staff assistance. The cupboard also posts updates on Instagram to let followers know which items are most needed.

McMahon said she hopes the federal funding situation stabilizes soon but remains confident that Bellmore-Merrick residents will continue to support one another.

“The community has been incredible about helping the cupboard and donating,” she said.

Volunteers tackle pollution at Mullener Pond

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

On Nov. 8, volunteers gathered in North Merrick to tackle a massive pollution problem at Mullener Pond, clearing a staggering 1.5 truckloads of debris.

The cleanup, part of Save the Great South Bay’s Creek Defender Program that is co-chaired by James Bertsch and Donald Nedbalsky, resulted in the collection of 80 35-gallon bags filled with litter—an estimated 8,000 plastic bottles among the garbage.

Around 45 volunteers from various local organizations and environmental groups worked together to restore the heavily polluted waterway near the Meadowbrook Parkway. Notable contributors included Neil Ciampa and the crew from Project Splash, Lauren Cassidy and Eileen Casazza from the Merrick Civic Association, the Merrick Kiwanis, and Jeff Mason from Jones Beach State Park.

“It was awesome,” Bertsch said. “The big thing was it’s about locals understanding that this is their cleanup, and that’s what I saw. Especially the Merrick Civic Association. They were so into it. Our model is that we help organize it, but you run it because you want people to feel like they accomplished something and did something.”

Jones Beach State Park sent three trucks and plenty of volunteers to help haul away the waste, which had accumulated over the years from storm runoff, windblown recycling, and waste from nearby neighborhoods.

“I didn’t know that that was going to happen,” Bertsch said about the Jones Beach State Park participation. “It was awesome because then there were 25 volunteers there, which is huge.”

Despite the considerable progress made during the event, organizers noted that the work at Mullener Pond is far from over, and more cleanups will be needed to fully restore the area.

“We’re going back this spring,” Bertsch said.

The Creek Defender Program, which is dedicated to cleaning and protecting the creeks that flow into the Great South Bay, aims to engage more local residents in long-term stewardship. Save the

Great South Bay hopes this cleanup will inspire more people to get involved and take ownership of their local waterways.

The organization is also working on expanding its reach to create a Meadowbrook Green Corridor that will connect nearby communities and further protect the South Shore’s estuaries.

Anyone interested in volunteering for future cleanups or becoming a designated creek defender in their community -- especially Bellmore, Merrick, Freeport, and Seaford -- can contact Bertsch at 516-987-6453.

Questions we’ve been asked...

Is there a fee charged for making funeral pre-arrangements?

There is absolutely no fee or other charge in New York State when you make “pre-arrangements”. Moreover when you pre-fund those arrangements through the Pre-Plan Trust there is no additional expense in establishing the trust account. A trust account that remains under your control and your funds are FDIC insured.

No commission, no set-up fees, no extra expenses. Just accurate, helpful information, and a plan that conforms to all New York State Regulations and SSI-Medicaid regulations as well. An enhanced rate of interest on the Pre-Plan Trust enables us to guarantee the funeral home costs when a complete funeral is arranged and paid for.

If you would like to discuss these issues, call us and we’ll arrange to have one of our licensed funeral director professionals meet with you and answer your questions.

You’ll receive clear answers, an itemized list of the costs, and some peace of mind.

Leo F. KEARNS, Inc. Funeral Directors

Thomas L. Kearns, Patrick J. Kearns, Paul C. Kearns-Stanley (516) 794-0500 or 1-800-640-9500 (NYS)

Mepham H.S. student killed in North Bellmore e-bike crash

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

A 14-year-old boy was killed in a tragic e-bike crash in North Bellmore on Nov. 6, according to Nassau County police.

Detectives said the incident occurred at around 7:05 a.m., when the teenager riding an e-bike was traveling west on Alice Avenue and attempted to cross Bellmore Avenue. As he entered the intersection, he was struck by a 2025 Chevrolet SUV driven by a 45-year-old woman heading south on Bellmore Avenue.

The teen, identified by school officials as Mepham High School freshman Jayden Flores, suffered severe injuries and was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the SUV remained at the scene.

Police said the investigation is ongoing.

Following the accident, the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District released a statement from Superintendent Michael Harrington, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.

Planning For and Executing Inheritances

(Part Two)

Early on, we learned the estate planning phrase “There’s nothing so unequal as the equal treatment of unequals.” Who has children that are all the same?

Some children have received significant help from parents during their lifetimes while others haven’t. Many parents choose the “forgiveness provision” to address this situation at death, to either “equalize” any gifts made to some children during lifetime with those who did not or, in the alternative, to “forgive” any loans made to children and then make a gift in like amount to each of the other children by inheritance, before the estate is divvied up in equal shares. Conversely, lifetime gifts may also be ignored. Next up is the problem of children who are partially or wholly estranged. Many clients wish to leave them a token amount but there are pitfalls to consider. One who is left considerably less than their siblings will often be angry and upset. They may demand that their siblings disclose what they received and even to pony up an equal share. Not only that, but the burden of telling that estranged child

they are getting less and delivering the paltry amount is left to the children who you wish to favor!

In our view, it is sometimes better to leave an estranged child out altogether than to stir up all the issues surrounding an inheritance much smaller than equal.

There are many valid reasons, however, to treat children differently. Some may have alcohol or substance abuse issues, learning disabilities or special needs, they may be immature and irresponsible, poor at handling money or a “soft touch” and, finally, they may have a spouse that dominates them and you do not want to see that controlling spouse get your money.

Sometimes parents leave more to the “needy” child, the old adage being that “the tongue always turns to the aching tooth”. If so, other children’s feelings may need to addressed. A letter to be opened after your death, explaining what you did and why, may go a long way towards soothing hurt feelings and avoiding misunderstandings, what we term the “emotional legacy”.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

516-327-8880 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington

Melville

Islandia

“It is with a heavy heart that I share with you some devastating news,” Harrington wrote. “Earlier this morning, student Jayden Flores, a freshman at Mepham High School, tragically passed away in an accident. We are all deeply saddened by this news and our hearts go out to his family, friends and all that knew him.”

The superintendent said crisis response teams were activated across the district to provide counseling and emotional support for students and staff.

“Our school counselors, social workers and psychologists will remain available as long as needed for any student or staff member who would like assistance during this difficult time,” Harrington said.

He added that the district would continue to support Flores’s family and classmates as they cope with the loss.

“This is an unimaginable loss,” Harrington wrote. “We will continue to sur-

Brian Kacharaba/Herald

A memorial for Mepham High School freshman Jayden Flores stands at the corner of Bellmore Avenue and Davenport Place, where friends and neighbors have left flowers, candles and messages in his honor.

round his family and friends with love and support in the days ahead.”

A memorial for Flores has been set up on a tree near the corner of Bellmore Avenue and Davenport Place, where friends have placed flowers, candles, painted rocks, and emotional handwritten notes.

A GoFundMe page has also been created to support Flores’s family. The fundraiser, titled “Community Support for Jayden Flores’ Family,” has collected nearly $50,000 at press time and can be found at GoFundMe.com/f/CommunitySupport-For-Jayden-Flores-Family.

With new Time-of-Day Rates, 3 PM to 7 PM is now “me time.” By doing chores that use a lot of electricity before or after those hours on weekdays, you take advantage of the times when energy costs less to produce. So, think laundry at 12 PM. Read a book or catch up on emails at 4 PM. Dishes at 8 PM. It’s all about timing your savings and saving your time. Some of the appliances that use the most energy are shown below. For the complete terms and conditions, go to psegliny.com/timeofday/terms.

Learn more. Scan the QR code or go to psegliny.com/timeofday.

HERALD SPORTS

East Meadow wears down Calhoun, 28-20

By PATRICK MOQUIN sports@liherald.com

Trailing by 14 at the end of the first quarter, East Meadow came all the way back in the Nassau Conference II football quarterfinals last Friday afternoon, defeating Calhoun 28-20 in a hardearned victory.

The fourth-seeded Jets (6-3) defended their home field to extend their season and will play Garden City, riding a staterecord 63-game winning streak, in the semifinals at Hofstra University this Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

“Little bit of a slow start, but this team settled in,” East Meadow head coach Keith Lizzi said. “They managed to find a way. We chipped at it, and I just kept telling them to win every quarter. We won the second and we came out and played really well in the third. We held on and made some big plays.”

The fifth-seeded Colts (6-3) silenced the raucous crowd with two early touchdowns. Quarterback Timmy Lynch connected with senior Brandon Meyers for a 23-yard touchdown to kick off the game, and running back Joseph Smith

punched in a 1-yard score later in the quarter to put Calhoun ahead 14-0.

The Jets led for the first time midway through the third quarter. Smith conducted a 12-play drive, including a key fourth-down completion to senior Damian Daniels, that ended when James Galiano found open space for a 12-yard rushing touchdown. The extra point from Adel DelJanin gave East Meadow a 21-14 lead.

On Calhoun’s next drive, East Meadow senior Marko Radalj, waiting in the wings for his moment all game, made a perfectly timed play on a screen pass and returned the interception 50 yards for what proved to be the game-winning touchdown.

“Two or three plays before, I was getting ready,” Radalj said. “I was baiting the screen out. I saw the quarterback turn his head, so I went to the flat. I put my hands out and it went straight to my hands. That’s probably the biggest moment of my sports career.”

Calhoun didn’t fade away in the fourth quarter and responded to the interception with a nine-play drive that ended in a 10-yard touchdown reception

by Joseph Belbol, making it a one-possession game again at 28-20.

The Colts’ final drive began with 2:26 remaining, and a sack by East Meadow junior Alex Lengu on third down effectively snuffed out their last bid.

Calhoun head coach Nick Rawls spent time after the game to offer personal farewells to nearly every player. Since taking over the program four years ago, this year’s seniors had become the backbone of his tenure. As their season came to an end, he wanted them to be remembered for one thing.

“Their resiliency,” Rawls said. “This is the toughest group of kids I’ve ever coached. I think this is my 18th year, and this is the most resilient group of young men I’ve ever had. They surprise me. They’re never out. The situation is never too big or too bad. They’re always in it, always fighting, always scraping.”

Brandon Meyers hauled down an early touchdown for the Colts in last Friday’s 28-20 playoff defeat at East Meadow.

Show Off Your Little Fans!

Snap a photo of your “Little Fan“ in their favorite football, hockey or any sports gear or outfit and enter our Little Fans Photo Contest!

Scan the QR code to submit your photo today for a chance to win a pair of New York Islanders tickets to a game this season and be featured in your Long Island Herald.

Whether it’s your pet in a jersey or child in their favorite team’s colors, we want to see how you get into the sport spirit! Contest Ends 11/20/25

LIPA chief discusses L.I.’s energy future

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

At the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5, Carrie Meek Gallagher, the new CEO of the Long Island Power Authority, spoke about the future of energy on Long Island.

“Energy is very significant to our economy, our businesses and just our way of life here on Long Island,” Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO, said. LIA is a nonprofit association that works to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality.

Gallagher, who took over at LIPA from John Rhodes in June, spoke with dozens of energy experts and local business owners about her priorities for the public authority, which owns the electric transmission and distribution system serving Long Island and the Rockaway peninsula. She has over 25 years of experience working in energy and sustainability in the public sector, having directed the Long Island office of the state Department of Public Service, and been the acting deputy secretary to the governor for energy and environment, and the regional director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

“Everyone here is committed to making sure that Long Island’s energy need are met in a clean, efficient and safe way,” Pat Guidice, business manger of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1049, said. “I can’t tell you how happy we at IBEW-1049 are that Carrie is now at the helm of LIPA, ensuring we have clean and efficient energy that will be provided to Long Island.”

“Carrie’s commitment to the people of Long Island is second to none,” Guidice added.

Madison Gusler/Herald

Long Island Power Authority’s new CEO, Carrie Meek Gallagher, spoke at the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5.

Gallagher said that her priorities are to ensure that there is a clean, reliable and affordable power supply, and to strengthen LIPA’s partnership with PSEG Long Island, which provides electrical service to customers.

“We need power — we need energy to run our economy,” she said. “We know affordability is really critical right now, so that’s something we’re continuing to

focus on.”

Entering contract negotiations with local and outof-state energy providers over the next three years, Gallagher said she is focused on cutting costs without impacting performance. She has also continued outreach about LIPA’s Time-of-Day program, which allows customers to choose when they use electricity, at varying rates.

Gallagher assured attendees that LIPA is prepared for days of high-energy demand. “We have enough capacity on any given day to meet even our peak demands,” she said.

Clean energy — which, she said, Long Island is very committed to — helps relieve the grid in times of high demand. South Fork Wind, she said, has been providing LIPA with power for over a year. She said that Long Island leads the state in solar installations, with nearly 100,000 customers and businesses receiving solar energy. While federal tax incentives for solar power will expire at the end of the year, Gallagher said that LIPA is working with state and local partners to create an alternative option for residents looking to go solar.

“Solar works here,” she said. “We know Long Islanders are willing to adopt it, and we want to continue that momentum, as it really does make a difference.”

According to the state Department of Public Service’s 2024 Electric Reliability Performance Report, Gallagher said, LIPA has outperformed all other overhead electric utilities in New York for five years. This shows that the agency has consistently provided energy to Long Islanders, and, she added, it continues to invest in ensuring that it can provide reliable and affordable service in the future.

Flag Field event tops $10K goal for vets

Merrick Avenue Middle School’s annual Flag Field of Honor event on Nov. 1 raised more than $10,000 this year to benefit Honor Flight Long Island and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

The school community—students, teachers, veterans, and local leaders—gathered to display hundreds of American flags along the school’s front lawn, honoring military service members.

French/ENL teacher Denise Schleith spearheaded student efforts to organize the event. In her remarks during the ceremony.

“Each flag before us represents courage, sacrifice, and service,” she said during the ceremony. “Together, they form a powerful symbol of gratitude to the men and women who have served our country and protected the freedoms we enjoy each day.”

The Flag Field of Honor is a deeply meaningful tribute and fundraising initiative, with each flag representing a service member. Local families were invited to sponsor flags, with the proceeds benefiting two key organizations supporting veterans and their families.

Veterans Chris Levi and Vincent DellPaoli spoke at the ceremony, with Levi returning for the third year to share his story and DellPaoli reflecting on his experiences as a Vietnam veteran and past Honor Flight participant.

“To our students — let this field inspire you,” Schleith continued. “Remember that service takes many forms. Whether it’s helping a classmate, volunteering in the community, or standing up for what’s right, you can make a difference every day.”

While MAMS took the lead in organizing the event, Sanford H. Calhoun High School also participated in a parallel fundraising campaign, coordinated by business teacher Sue Litwin. The Mack family, who have led the Flag Field of Honor initiative for the past five years, worked closely with the school community to make the event a success, supported by student volunteers and local families.

The flags will remain on display in front of the middle school through the first week of December. Principal Katelyn Dunn expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“We are so grateful to those who have served and thankful to the families who sponsored a flag this year,” she said.

— Brian Kacharaba

FJF owner honored by chamber council

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce recognized Frank Firriolo as the Merrick Chamber’s honoree at its annual breakfast on Oct. 31, celebrating his decades of entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and community service.

Firriolo was one of 36 people honored at the 40th annual Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast at the Crest Hollow Country Club, an event that highlights the accomplishments of local business leaders from chambers across Nassau County.

Owner of FJF Remodelers Inc., a family-run remodeling and contracting company founded in 1997, Firriolo has built his reputation on quality workmanship, reliability, and strong relationships with clients throughout Long Island. Specializing in both residential and commercial projects, FJF Remodelers offers kitchen and bathroom renovations, home additions, custom carpentry, tile and stonework, roofing, siding, and full-home remodels.

With more than 25 years of experience, Firriolo’s approach to business emphasizes integrity and craftsmanship. His company’s mission—to transform spaces with skill, honesty, and attention to detail—has earned loyal customers across Nassau County.

“It was a great honor,” Firriolo said. “It was a great reception. I’m very happy that they selected me.”

A lifelong Merrick resident, Firriolo’s roots in the community run deep. His children attended Kennedy High School, and his company continues to serve the same neighborhoods he grew up in. He joined the Merrick Chamber of Commerce shortly after moving to the area and has been an active member for three

decades, serving on the Chamber’s board for the past two years.

Over the years, he has participated in numerous local initiatives, including the annual Merrick Fair and community beautification projects.

Beyond his business endeavors, Firriolo has long been committed to giving back to the community. For more than 20 years, he has volunteered with Merrick Bellmore Little League, serving on its board and running the junior umpires program—a role he continues even though his children are now grown. He also donates his time to community events organized by the Chamber, including maintaining the Christmas lights and setting up the menorah for the holiday season.

“It’s nice to know that everyone is behind you, and you’re part of your community, and you’re doing your part,” he said. “You’re a part of people that also have the same intentions.”

The Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce was established in 1979 when representatives from chambers across Nassau County—including Great Neck, Hicksville, Merrick, Hempstead, Baldwin, Westbury, Long Beach, Levittown, Freeport, Garden City, Franklin Square, East Meadow, Massapequa, Rockville Centre, and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce of Long Island—met to discuss issues affecting the local business community.

At subsequent meetings, the group agreed to form a council to address shared concerns such as legislative advocacy, community development, parking, and membership growth. Meeting monthly, the organization evolved into a formal advisory body that continues to provide leadership, coordination, and support to chambers of commerce throughout Nassau County.

It’s (maybe) Sunny at Abbott

Iam feeling, perhaps more than usual, my generational differences when it comes to entertainment and media. In a world where I often suffer from FOMO, I am trying to be deliberate when watching, reading, streaming and surfing to understand the objective, the purpose of the art.

But lately it has become more demanding.

Case in point: “It’s always Sunny in Philadelphia”.

This sitcom show has been running for 27 seasons and although I knew it existed, it didn’t come on my radar until they did a crossover with “Abbott Elementary.”

Reading over some web searches, “Sunny” can be described as a show that features the trials and tribulations of five “self-absorbed” friends who are tending to a failing pub in Philadelphia. I hadn’t watched it, until now.

characters perspective (episode two), I knew I was too literal to watch for the subtleties and symbols that have amused Sunny’s viewers since the 1990s. I just don’t fully get the “they really mess up even worse than me and I can laugh at it” humor when the messing up is extreme and sociopathic. (Is there such a word? Yes, it’s an adjective that really describes Sunny’s genre to a T.)

“Abbott”, a sitcom I have watched, is set in an underfunded Philadelphia public school with an ensemble cast portraying teachers trying to make a difference in their children (and their own) lives.

I have no relationship with bar ownership and have never taught in elementary school, so for those who have, the realism of these shows is seen in the eyes of the beholder. But when I saw the two come together for two episodes: “Sunny’s” characters doing community service at Abbott from both a viewer’s perspective (episode one) and from the

Abbott is more direct, more family friendly, focused on the way the characters navigate from one problem to its solution. It’s sometimes corny but often hopeful.

So although it wasn’t meant to be a TV review, I will acknowledge that these shows have their audiences and their concept. For the mash up, I admit I laughed at some moments and cringed at others.

Think of it this way, if these shows were candy, “Abbott” would be sweet, “Sunny” extra sour. But too much of either to drive a crossover (given no other commonality except that all the characters reside in Philly) contain the ingredients for a guaranteed stomach ache.

A contributing writer to the Herald since 2012, Lauren Lev is a direct marketing/ advertising executive who teaches marketing fundamentals as well as advertising and marketing communications courses at the Fashion Institute of Technology and SUNY Old Westbury.

L et us K now

News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com

Intelitalk Mind, Body, and Wellness: Unlocking What Blocks Your Mind

•Evidence-based

•English and Spanish-speaking male and female therapists that support those ages 4 to 80 +

•Specializing in: Anxiety, Anger Management, Depression, Marriage Counseling, ADHD, Addiction, Bereavement, Group Therapy and more!

Mention the Herald for a free 15-minute phone consultation with Dr. Morand

Isles awarded 2027 NHL All-Star Weekend

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The next National Hockey League All-Star Game will be played at UBS Arena in Elmont.

For only the second time in franchise history, the New York Islanders will host the NHL’s All-Star game. The league announced Oct. 24 UBS Arena will be the site of the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend. The event is scheduled for Feb. 5, 6 and 7, and the weekend’s festivities will be broadcast by ESPN and ABC. Additional information on the midseason showcase, including ticketing and broadcast information, will be announced when available.

Islanders season ticket members will receive priority access to the event.

“We have been looking forward to UBS Arena playing host to one of our major League events since before construction of this wonderful arena began,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “We have every confidence that the Islanders organization, led by Scott Malkin and Jon Ledecky, will deliver a celebration that will make the greater New York region and the NHL proud.”

Tim Baker/Herald

UBS Arena in Elmont will host the NHL All-Star Weekend Feb. 5-7, 2027, the league announced Oct. 24.

The Islanders had originally been awarded the 2026 All-Star Weekend, but that was cancelled this past spring when the league decided not to hold the game in the same year as the Winter Olympic Games taking place in Milan, Italy. The idea then became to turn the weekend into a pre-Olympics event, but the NHL decided to nix that as well to allow players to focus on travel and preparation for the Olympics.

It is now expected each NHL Club will organize an Olympic Winter Games send-off for its respective players traveling to Italy, with more details to be announced in the near future.

Islanders forward Mathew Barzal, who has appeared in the NHL All-Star

Game three times (2019, 2020 and 2024) and in 2020 won the fastest skater competition, is excited about the event coming to Elmont.

“It’s exciting that the All-Star Game is coming to Long Island,” Barzal said. “UBS Arena is one of the best buildings in the league so it will be great to show off the dressing room and the amenities we have as players. It’s going to be great for our fans to see the best of the best take the ice on the island.”

Fans can sign up to receive news and updates on the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend by going to nhl.com/events/ all-star/nhl-all-star-weekend.

The NHL experienced a new wave of interest last winter when the traditional All-Star Game was replaced by the 4 Nations Face-Off, a four-team tournament contested by winners Canada, the United States, Sweden and Finland.

The 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend will mark just the second time the Islanders will host NHL All-Star activities, with the first being the 1983 edition, featuring the Campbell Conference AllStars defeating the Wales Conference All-Stars 9-3, and Wayne Gretzky claiming NHL All-Star MVP honors at Nassau Coliseum with a then-record four goals. It’ll also mark the first All-Star Game in the state of New York since 1994, when the New York Rangers hosted it at Madison Square Garden.

News brief

Metaphysical shop will introduce angels

Charmed and Healing in Bellmore, a cozy metaphysical shop, is inviting the community to explore the celestial side of spirituality with a free “Introduction to Angels” class on Dec. 5. The event will focus on learning about angels and archangels and how to connect with them through guided meditation.

The session will be led by psychic medium Shaun Tannenbaum. Store owner Lori McGuire said the event welcomes people of all backgrounds and beliefs.

“You don’t have to believe in any certain thing to come to this class,” McGuire said. “You just need to want to let positivity in.”

Located at 305C Bedford Ave., Charmed and Healing has been a part of the Bellmore community for five years. The shop offers reiki energy healing, meditation sessions, sound bowl therapy and psychic readings and also sells various spiritual items.

McGuire opened the business in 2020, following a career in the fashion industry.

“It was really just to bring people together, to kind of lighten the energy, raise the vibration, let go of negativity, and really just start healing themselves,” she said.

To reserve a spot for the 8 p.m. class, call 516-673-6554.

— Brian Kacharaba

STEPPING OUT

Gaelic Storm

‘Jump’ right in with Mickey and his pals

By Karen Bloom

Before we get ready for the big feast, take some time with your family to feast on some Disney magic. The holiday season lights up, once again, as the latest Disney On Ice tour skates into UBS Arena with “Jump In!,” now through Nov. 16. As always, Mickey and the gang start audiences off on some wild adventures from the moment everyone settles in their seats. It’s a jumpin’ and jivin’ ride that begins with a touch of Mickey’s Magical Mouse Pad. Yeah, that’s right, even Mickey has embraced technology with his special version of an iPad!

Truly an outsized spectacle, over 50 characters gather in this —all-new — extravagant showcase of some of Disney’s most beloved tales. Disneyphiles will jump for joy when new characters from “Moana 2” and Anxiety, the newly-introduced emotion in the “Inside Out 2” sequel, appear on ice. Anxiety is, of course, joined by the other characters we all know so well: Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger, and Fear.

Everyone can navigate those thrilling high seas with Moana and feel all the feels in the vibrant world of “Inside Out 2” when these beloved films come to life on ice for the first time. And, naturally, there’s so much more.

Help Stitch fix a glitch as mayhem ensues across the ice, stroll the bustling metropolis of “Zootopia,” glide through the icy realms of “Frozen,” marvel at the playful“Toy Story” universe and travel to the vibrant world of Colombia with the Madrigal family in “Encanto.” Plus, everyone is always in awe when Ariel, Jasmine, Rapunzel, and Tiana arrive in a dazzling parade of Disney princesses.

These unforgettable characters and their adventures are fully alive as families are transported to world where imaginations soar — and in true Disney spirit “anything can happen if you just believe.”

And that’s how it is for Andrew Austin. The Chicago, Ill.-based skater, who joined the Disney On Ice ensemble in 2022, after concluding his competitive skating career — is certainly living his dream.

He, naturally, has been a Disney fan since childhood (a prerequisite of sorts for skaters in the show). His first experience with Disney on Ice came around age 6, Austin recalls.

“I’ve always loved Disney, especially ‘The Lion King’ and ‘The Little Mermaid.’ A truly poignant memory for me is when my godmother took me [to the show]. I

• Now through Sunday. Nov. 16; times vary

• Tickets start at $40; available at ticketmaster.com or disneyonice.com

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

have such a fond memory of being there with her.”

That memory has since become reality for Austin, who first laced up skates as 6-year-old.

“I soon realized I had a talent for skating and wanted to see how far I could push myself,” he says.”

At 23, Austin decided it was time, as he put it, “to make a new start and begin a new chapter.”

Disney beckoned and he never looked back.

“It’s all magical,” Austin says enthusiastically.

That word again. The Mouse House goes big on the magic — and the magic brings everyone together.

“It’s really about family togetherness and learning the magic of family so it’s a great time for all ages,” Austin says.

Like always, the skating brings a new dimension to the stories we know so well. You’ll see exciting visuals, thrilling stunts and mesmerizing choreography that fully immerse those both on ice and in their seats. The solos, pairs and fast-paced ensemble skating, along with acrobatic routines, keep everyone transfixed to the action unfolding.

“We’ve worked so hard to get to this point, the skating is truly top notch,” Austin adds.

Expect to see acrobatic stunts throughout the show. High-flying performers elevate skating to the next level, with gravity-defying aerial stunts.

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes Gaelic Storm a true anomaly. The multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. fans of every genre are attracted to their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. This dedication to their live show dates all the way back to the mid-1990s, when the band kicked off their career as a pub band in Santa Monica, Calif. Those performances ultimately led to their discovery that found the band appearing in the blockbuster film “Titanic” (where they performed “Irish Party in Third Class”), laying the groundwork for what would come, all while gaining a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band whose songs mix Celtic traditions with something uniquely creative.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. $68, $58, $48. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Princess Ariel soars above the ice to “Kiss the Girl,” and Rapunzel’s golden hair is brought to life by flowing aerial silks in a dazzling aerial routine with Flynn Rider.

Throughout it all, you’ll be singing along — no matter your age. Disney’s timeless catalog, including “Let It Go” (Frozen), “Try Everything”(Zootopia), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto), “Get Lost” (Moana 2), and many more favorites, are all part of the exciting soundtrack.

Excitement is certainly a descriptive of the entire spectacle.

“It’s really special and exciting for the cast to see all those smiling faces. We’re so happy to see the how the kids connect with the characters ... I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” he continues.

A final word from Austin: “This really is about family togetherness and learning the magic of family, so it’s a great time for all ages. You’ll see how the magic comes from within.”

Matt Friend

Matt Friend has been described as “a gift to comedy.” If you’re not familiar with him yet, now’s the time to find out what he’s all about. Truly an old soul in the body of a 26-year-old, the comedian-actor-impressionist — a 2020 graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School — discovered a love for comedy at the tender age of four after watching Austin Powers and mimicking the characters’ voices. His passion has since propelled him to great heights, amassing over 1 million followers on social platforms. Known for his impressive repertoire of over 250 impressions, from Rami Malek to Timothee Chalamet, he’s a beloved comedic figure on social media, stages and red carpets worldwide. Mattcontinues to captivate audiences with his stand-up shows across the U.S. and abroad. Impressions aside, Matt is a true intellect — wise beyond his years — a student of show business, comedy, politics, and culture.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

NOVEMBER 19 • 5:30-9:00PM

The Heritage Club at Bethpage

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CANON U.S.A., INC.

ELECTRIC

INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI

President & CEO

Canon U.S.A., Inc.

ACCOUNTING

JERRY P. WARD

Managing Partner

EY Long Island Office

KIRTHI MANI

Chief People Officer

CLA

LOUIS C. GRASSI, CPA, CFE

Founder & CEO

Grassi Advisors Group, Inc.

SHEILA KURMAN

Chief Human Resources Officer

Prager Metis CPAs

ADVERTISING

BENJAMIN COGGIANO

President Walter F. Cameron Advertising

CONSTRUCTION

JOSH SEIDEN

Owner & President

LMJ Management & Construction

EDUCATION

EDWARD T. BONAHUE, PH.D.

President

Suffolk County Community College

MARIA CONZATTI, PH.D.

Chief Administrative Officer

Nassau Community College

RACQUEL A. BROWN

Associate Dean Administrative & Fiscal Affairs

St. John’s University

TIMOTHY E. SAMS, PH.D.

President

SUNY Old Westbury

PATRICIA GALTERI

MICHAEL STEWART

Chief Financial Officer

L.E.B Electric

ENGINEERING

MAQSOOD MALIK, P.E.

Founder, President & CEO

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

MOHAMMAD MALIK

Chief Operating Officer

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

Managing Attorney Meyer Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ. CELA , Chair Elder Law Practice Group, Partner Trusts & Estates Practice Group Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP

MANUFACTURING & DISTRIBUTION

FRANK PALMA

PRINTING

NOREEN CARRO

President

LMN Printing of NY, Inc.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

ROBERT M. GITTO

Vice President

The Gitto Group

TAX PROPERTY REDUCTION SERVICES

SEAN ACOSTA

President

BILLY HAUGLAND II

Chief Executive Officer Haugland Group ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

FINANCE

MICHAEL MARRERO

SBA Director, SVP BankUnited

HEALTHCARE

MICHAEL N. ROSENBLUT

President & CEO Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation Center

SOFIA AGORITSAS, MPA, FACHE Vice President, Business Development Cohen Children’s Medical Center

HOSPITALITY

MICHAEL LESSINGS

Chief Executive Officer Lessings Hospitality Group INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE

LAURA BONELLI President LifeVac LLC

LEGAL

ALLAN COHEN

Managing Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP

President Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, LLC

MORTGAGE BANKING

DONATO (DANNY) NICOLO

President/Owner Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

ANNE BRIGIS

President & CEO YMCA Long Island

JEFFREY L. REYNOLDS, PH.D. President & CEO Family and Children’s Association (FCA)

KATHERINE FRITZ President & CEO Long Island Cares

LONNIE SHERMAN President General Needs

MIKE ROSEN

Chief Marketing Officer Guide Dog Foundation & America's VetDogs

TAMMY SEVERINO President & CEO Girls Scouts of Suffolk County

THERESA REGNANTE President & CEO United Way of Long Island

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

TECHNOLOGY

EUGENE SAYAN

Founder,Chairman, CEO Softheon

JOE SCIOSCIA

Executive Vice President

Vormittag Associates, Inc. (VAI)

MICHAEL CHAMBERS AND SEAN INFANTE

President & Vice President

Central Business Systems

TOM BIANCULLI

Chief Technology Officer

Zebra Technologies

TOURISM

MITCH PALLY

Interim President & CEO

Discover Long Island

SHARON WYMAN

Chief Operations Officer

Discover Long Island

TRANSPORTATION

MARLON TAYLOR

President

New York & Atlantic Railway

PALMINA WHELAN, CCM, FCMAA, MCIOB, NAC

Founder & Capital Program

Director of New Terminal 1 at JFK

Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions

ROBERT FREE

President

Long Island Rail Road

‘Who’s Who’ awards return to Mepham H.S.

Practice in 2024. Bloomfield’s clinical career included positions at Winthrop University Hospital and North Shore Cardiology. She also served four years in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, attaining the rank of captain during her tenure.

After relocating to Georgia in 2019, she chose to “give back,” becoming an adjunct nursing instructor at the Georgia Baptist College of Nursing at Mercer University.

“Looking back over the past 40 years of my career, it has been a rewarding and challenging profession,” Bloomfield said.

Michael P. Frassetti: Class of 1966

Dave Krinskey, who sponsored Frassetti’s application, spoke on his behalf, as Frassetti was unable to attend.

Frassetti earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Long Island University and served in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1973 as part of the Titan II missile crew in Arizona.

A musician and composer since his Mepham days, Frassetti went on to win an Emmy Award for music composed for a Phoenix-based ABC-TV program. He currently serves as composer-in-residence for the North Valley Chorale in Phoenix.

“His work has earned numerous awards for composition for guitar, voices and multiple idioms,” Krinskey said.

Vincent ‘Bob’ R. Ferrigno: Class of 1954

Sponsored by Mepham Alumni Board member Roy Probeyahn, Ferrigno was honored with the Who’s Who

Award in 2022 and was represented in absentia.

After graduating from Mepham, Ferrigno attended Hofstra University, later building a successful career as a developer and serving as an embarkation logistics manager in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Probeyahn noted that Ferrigno’s philanthropy became a defining element of his legacy.

“Bob’s financial success enabled him to embark on a path of philosophy and caring that had an outsized impact on people inside and outside the Jackson -

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, DB TL HOLDCO 2018 LLC, Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAM GROSS, PAULINE GROSS, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated October 17, 2023 and duly entered October 18, 2023 and an Order to Appoint Substitute Referee dated July 18, 2024 and duly entered July 23, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1758 John Street, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected,

situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 211 and Lot 17. Approximate amount of judgment is $78,086.83 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608383/2020. Brian Carmody, Esq., Referee Bronster, LLP, 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703, New York, New York 10019, Attorneys for Plaintiff 156658

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given

that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 11/19/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

590/25. MERRICKJennifer Roberts, Variance, lot area occupied, maintain outdoor shower., S/s Seneca Dr. So., 1009.79’ E/o Seneca Gate, a/k/a 2164 Seneca Dr. So. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Merrick within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it 156785

mepham High School principal anthony demartinis was the special guest speaker at the Who’s Who awards ceremony.

ville, Florida, community,” he said. Ferrigno also volunteered for more than 10 years at a Jacksonville homeless center.

Leslie Corwin: Class of 1965 Corwin, honored in 2020 and sponsored by Bob Fellows, spent five decades in the legal field. He served as managing partner of the New York office of Eisner LLP, which he helped launch, and currently sits on the board of the Peter C. Alderman Foundation.

At Mepham, he was student council president, speaker of the House of Representatives and editor of The Buccaneer. He went on to attend Brown University and Fordham University School of Law.

“I love my years at Mepham, and I love my profession more than words can adequately express,” Corwin said. “Thanks to the marvelous education I received at Mepham, I am truly blessed to have been able to do what I always wanted to do.”

David Dachinger: Class of 1973

Heather Castello, who sponsored Dachinger’s 2020 nomination, spoke on his behalf.

Dachinger graduated from Berklee College of Music in 1978 with a degree in composition. His music has been featured during the Super Bowl, NBA games, The Masters, U.S. Open Tennis, Kentucky Derby, college football broadcasts, and programs including “Dateline,” “Fox News,” “Biography” and “Jeopardy.”

“Today, David is a successful and highly respected composer with a goal to create music that reaches a person’s soul,” Castello said.

Dachinger is also a lieutenant with the Connecticut Fire Department and a best-selling author.

The Meritorious Service Award recognizes outstanding service to the Alumni Association and Mepham High School. Those honorees included Hayes, Mepham teacher and community leader Heather Maselli Castellano, Laura House Stein, who revitalized the Alumni Association, and Katherine Costello.

and old yearbooks.

Location Location Location!

Costs have gone up how much?

Q. We’re wondering what to do, whether to act now or wait to redo our kitchen and bathroom. We got estimates last spring, but thought we should wait because of the way the economy is going. Our contractor now says costs may have doubled since then. How can that be? We know some materials have gone up, but enough to nearly double? What are you seeing, since you’re involved in this, and are there any suggestions you can make? Our bathroom plumbing is leaking and our kitchen is at least 70 years old, with cabinet doors that are ready to fall off the hinges. Is there any reason to wait?

A. I doubt that, for the foreseeable future, you’ll get a great price to do the work you describe, unfortunately. We’re experiencing a “perfect storm” event in slow motion, and unless people start making themselves heard by either voicing their concerns to those with power or responding by not paying the higher prices, this spiral of rising costs is going to take time to reverse.

There are many parts to any project. Let’s start with planning. I’ve seen that many people naively believe they can just hire somebody or do the job themselves. They believe that within the walls of their home they can do anything. Well, you can — until you get caught. When trucks with a company name, a dumpster or a delivery are spotted in front of your house, a roaming official may show up to inspect, then give you an unreasonable time frame, like 14 to 30 days, to get plans submitted by a licensed architect or engineer or face fines. So you hire the professional and, little by little, learn of things you didn’t know you needed, like a permit for your air conditioning and higher costs for insulation to pass the energy code. Your design professional must submit a detailed set of energy-compliance pages showing how your new work will meet strict requirements. These are already three expenses you may not have expected. A fourth extra cost could be for legalizing, with a time-involved zoning variance, the outdoor A.C. unit if the installers never bothered to check or inform you that where they put the unit won’t pass local zoning requirements, and they avoided the permit you now need.

Now you’re ready for estimates. One will be almost double the others, because competition does that. But you want great quality and Americanmade. So the price rises back up to nearly the level of the higher bidder. Why? Labor increased due to obvious shortages of employees who will work for less. Materials were affected by tariff reactions, and energy costs have risen. Many homeowners are trying to get work done in a mild panic, so demand causes shortages in supplies, which were just catching up after the pandemic.

It may take a groundswell of people choosing not to do work to change things, but historically, prices won’t drop significantly. Good luck!

© 2025 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Stuff HERALD

Wanted To Buy

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

Miscellaneous For Sale

PIANO: YAMAHA CLAVINOVA CLP-860 w/stereo sampling. $1,200.00 Negotiable. Pick-up Only. Call 718-986-7336 Leave Message.

Costume Jewelry Wanted Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver. $$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792 Long Island / Will Travel FINDS UNDER

Finds Under $100

BABY'S CHANGE TABLE. Gently used; white, 3 drawers. $20. Lido Beach. (516)705-8398

CAT TREE CLIMBING tower: 6 Foot, Hardly used, Gray material, Like new, $80. (516)486-2363

DOLLS, DOLL HOUSE MINIATURES & ACCESSORIES FOR SALE. Under $99.00. Call Joy Evenings, 917-743-7695 Leave Message

SAMSUNG 40" SMART LED TV w/ Remote. Mdl-UN40H5203AF $60. 516-791-3334

SERVICES

Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry

***MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION*** EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS! GIUSEPPE MUCCIACCIARO

We Do Pavers, Cultured Stone, Concrete, Bluestone, Blacktop, Fireplace, Patio, Waterproofing, Walkways, Pool Work. Lic#H2204320000 Family Operation Over 40Years. 516-238-6287

Cable/TV/Wiring

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

Cleaning Services

WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC. Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC.

All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Handyman

PAINTING & HANDYMAN SERVICE

Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day! 917-822-0225 Ricky Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing. Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000

Home Improvement

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159

CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.

PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473

Miscellaneous

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

Painting

CHARLIE THE PAINTER: Highly Skilled Professional Painter. All Phases Of The Painting Trade. Interior/ Exterior. Expert Repairs. Commercial. 25 Years Experience. FREE Estimates. Charlie 516-325-6574

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. Family Plumbing. 516-825-3606

Services

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?

STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells

Tutoring

READING TUTOR : Certified In Wilson, Fundations, Orton-Gilliham. Will Focus On All Skills Needed To Improve Vocabulary, Phonemic Awareness, Fluency, Comprehension And Phonics. 516-650-5776; mypaltj@yahoo.com

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Autos For Sale

BMW 650I 2012: Vin #WBALZ5C53CC619800, Blue, Convertible, Asking $8,000. Sale 11/14/25 10am At 75 Dale Street, West Babylon, NY 11704. Call Kirk Cesar 516-491-7459

BMW M5 2007: Vin

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Tree Services

T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE *TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172

ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397

#WBSNB93517CX07034, Black, 4dr Sedan, Asking $8,000. Sale 11/14/25 10am At 75 Dale Street, West Babylon, NY 11704. Call Mark-Anthony Ellis 516-491-7459

FORD FOCUS, 2014, 4 Door, Hatchback, Fully Loaded, Garaged, 8K-Miles, Showroom Condition, $10,000 Cash. 516-941-5874

MERCEDES C350, 2015: 4Matic, Sunroof, 77K, White/ Black

Local triumphs on a night Republicans didn’t expect

nassau County Republicans scored outstanding victories in last week’s elections, which, with the other exception of our neighbors in Suffolk County, were a political disaster for Republicans across the country. And those Nassau victories didn’t come easily, or without tension. Anyone who has ever jumped into the political caldron and run for elective office knows the surreal experience and anxiety of election night. Everything that could have been done has been done. It’s all over but the waiting — for either the joy of victory or the agony of defeat.

As is the tradition under county party Chairman Joe Cairo, Republicans held their electionnight gathering at the Coral House in Baldwin. The crowd began gathering about 8:30 p.m., a half-hour before the polls closed. Within an hour, the ballroom was filled to capacity. In a private room at the rear of the building, candidates and party leaders waited to receive and analyze vote tallies from the hamlets, villages, towns and cities that

comprise the nation’s oldest suburbs.

In the lead-up to election night, Nassau Republicans were as upbeat as they could be. The ticket was led by Bruce Blakeman, who was seeking re-election as county executive after a very successful first term. Blakeman had held the line on taxes and, most important, the county was judged the safest in America. Amid growing concern that the anti-police proposals of the favorite to become New York City mayor, Zohran Mamdani, would increase the crossover crime from Queens into Nassau, Blakeman’s proven propolice, anti-crime policies had strongly resonated with the Nassau electorate. To buttress his strong law-and-order stand, there were District Attorney Anne Donnelly, a career prosecutor, and Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, who stood 24/7 with his men and women in blue.

Tmore than an outside chance. Instead, barely an hour after the polls closed, Democrat Abigail Spanberger was declared the winner in what appeared to be a landslide. Not a good omen.

he election wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout that we anticipated.

But New Jersey would be different, we thought. Polls had shown Republican Jack Ciattarelli closing the gap on Democrat Mikie Sherrill (whom I’d served with in Congress). The final pre-election polls showed Sherrill with just a 2-point lead, and Ciattarelli having all the momentum. Instead, as soon as the state’s polls closed, Sherrill jumped to an immediate lead, which steadily grew.

was always a commanding presence at these moments, had not yet appeared. Shortly after 10 p.m., he entered the room, explaining that he was “under the weather” and been feeling rotten all day. He did, however, have numbers showing that with about 60 percent of the votes counted, Republicans were holding all our current offices, and might possibly pick up one or two more. There was a huge sigh of relief.

But all did not go smoothly on election night. The Nassau results came in slowly, so our attention was focused on the governors’ races in New Jersey and Virginia as possible indicators of what Nassau’s results might be. While the Virginia race had been expected to lean Democratic, Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears was thought to have

Then, just after 9 p.m., there was more bad news. Mamdani was headed to a clear victory over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, as Curtis Sliwa siphoned off votes that might have made the difference. In Nassau the votes were still barely trickling in, and all we could see was a blue wave everywhere. There was a feeling of foreboding about what might await us amid reports that the turnout in some Republican areas had been less than expected. This night wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout victory that had been anticipated.

Adding to the concern, Cairo, who

Cairo cautioned, though, that the night wasn’t over until all the votes were counted, saying, “There’s nothing more meaningless than the score at halftime.” About a half-hour later, he returned to announce that the Republican trend had continued. In fact, we had swept every contested seat on the City Council in Long Beach, where Democratic voters have a 7-1 majority, for the first time since 1971.

About 11:30, led by Blakeman and Cairo, Republicans made their way through the Coral House ballroom onto the stage to claim victory, to acknowledge the roaring crowd and to thank them for their efforts and support. Another election night was in the books. It wasn’t easy, but the blue wave had been stopped at the Nassau border!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Getting elected looks easy. Governing is the hard part.

The die is cast. New York City will have a new mayor, Zohran Mamdani. But it’s one thing to campaign for public office, and another thing altogether to run one of the biggest cities in the world, with a demanding populace and innumerable challenges. It reminds me of the Robert Redford movie “The Candidate.”

On the morning after he succeeds in winning his senatorial election, Redford’s character, Bill McKay, asks, “What do we do now?”

Having observed a number of mayoral contests, I feel qualified to opine on what first steps a new mayor must take that will make or break his years in office. While there are many positions that Mamdani must fill starting Jan. 1, the most important one is budget director. New York City has a somewhat shaky financial picture, and having someone who can crunch the numbers and package the spending plan will be life or death for him.

The next-most-visible job is that of police commissioner. The New York City Police Department currently has an intelligent and respected leader in Jessica Tisch, who has served with distinction since November 2024. Prior to that she was commissioner of the city Department of Sanitation, where she won the respect of union leaders, who admired her smarts and her approach to the job.

At this stage, Tisch has nothing new to prove. She works well with the police rank-and-file, and has never run afoul of law enforcement unions. She could easily take a job in the private sector and get a big pat on the back for a job well done. On the other hand, she may be willing to continue in the police commissioner’s job until such time as the mayor asks her to take some action that she finds objectionable.

on departmental staffing levels. During the mayoral campaign, both former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani pledged to hire 5,000 new patrolmen, a pledge easier made than accomplished.

M amdani, like Robert Redford’s Bill McKay, may wonder, ‘What do we do now?’

The city needs thousands of new police officers to replace the large number who have opted to retire in recent years, but building up the department isn’t an easy job. Because of the city’s low starting salaries, the pay is unattractive. Many current members of the department have decided to take jobs in the suburbs, where entry-level pay is typically much higher. A new mayor can make all kinds of promises, but the key to getting new cops is higher pay, and as few policy challenges as possible. An overbearing mayor with too many liberal policies will chill the force’s future.

I’ve heard a variety of views about Mayor Eric Adams’s record in office, and there’s no question that he has had a number of ethical issues. Key commissioners and their assistants have been forced to resign due to conflicts and questionable actions. His most ardent supporters claim that the ethics issues have been overstated, but the record is there for everyone to examine, and it doesn’t look good.

The path forward for the new mayor will be most challenging. He is a neophyte, and knows nothing about the city’s true challenges. If he chooses qualified people for his administration, their successes will speak for themselves. If he makes serious mistakes, the Republican establishment will broadcast to the entire world that “we told you so.”

Mamdani hasn’t offered many opinions on how the Police Department should operate, other than suggesting that mental health professionals should accompany officers on patrol on calls involving people with mental health issues. He hasn’t offered any opinions on such programs as Stop and Frisk, or

One of the city’s current weaknesses is its Law Department. The corporation counsel’s office is badly in need of staff to handle the thousands of challenges it faces annually. There are about a thousand people in the department, but because it’s understaffed, taxpayers wind up paying a price in lost cases.

Even though Nassau is a borderline county and Suffolk is even more distant, we need a New York City that has low crime rates and is fiscally sound. An old political sage once told me that “when New York City sneezes, Long Island catches a cold.” Let’s hope the adage doesn’t hold true.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

HERALD

Hochul must sign police radio access bill

at a time when we are grappling with an erosion of public trust, a new threat to transparency is emerging. Across New York, police departments are encrypting their radio systems — cutting off journalists, and, by extension, the public, from critical, real-time information.

It’s not just a press freedom issue. It’s a public safety issue.

From Atlantic Beach to Babylon, Long Islanders deserve to know what’s happening in their communities, especially during moments of crisis — a school lockdown, a shooting or a natural disaster. Instead, we are increasingly forced to rely on rumor, fragmented updates or, worse, no information at all.

In the age of social media misinformation, that’s not just frustrating. It’s dangerous.

Fortunately, state lawmakers have passed a bill that seeks to reverse this perilous trend. The legislation, S.416/A.3516, sponsored by two Democrats in the Legislature, Sen. Mike Gianaris and Assemblywoman Karines Reyes, would guarantee credentialed journalists secure, real-time access to encrypted police radio communications.

It is now on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk, awaiting her signature. She must sign it.

letters

Let’s hear about the other sides of Trump, Peter King

To the Editor:

I have always respected Peter King’s political opinions, although I may not have agreed with some of them. I especially appreciate his efforts in bringing about the Good Friday Agreement and peace in Northern Ireland in the late 1990s.

In his op-ed in the Oct. 30-Nov. 5 issue, “Trump has written the first chapter of a new Mideast history,” King praises President Trump, and rightly so, for his excellent work in bringing together a number of countries and leaders to bring an end to the horrific war in Gaza. Let’s hope it holds. Now, I hope King devotes a column to Trump’s actions (or lack thereof) and behavior as our “domestic” president. We are currently more than 40 days into a government shutdown in which military personal and federal workers are not being paid (but Congress is!), 42 million people have lost most of their SNAP benefits and health insurance prices will double in January. Surely our president could use his power — and he loves doing that — to bring solutions to these important issues. He could order his puppet, Mike Johnson, the speaker of the

For nearly a century, journalists have monitored police radio frequencies and alerted the public to developing emergencies. That’s how people on Long Island and beyond have learned about major accidents, crimes in progress and natural disasters. In some cases, lives have been saved thanks to timely, verified information reported by local media.

Now that lifeline is being cut off.

Proponents of encryption argue that it protects sensitive information and personal privacy. That’s a valid concern — but this legislation addresses it. Under the bill, access would be password-protected, monitored and limited to credentialed journalists. Reporters would not be able to transmit on the channels or interfere in any way. If anyone were to abuse the privilege, his or her access would be revoked. Critically sensitive communications would remain encrypted.

This is not about giving journalists a backstage pass to law enforcement. It’s about making sure the public isn’t left in the dark when seconds count.

We’ve already seen the consequences of delayed information. In Chicago, a delay in releasing police communications during a courthouse shooting in July prevented timely warnings to the

public.

Police departments that initially embraced full encryption are rethinking the policy. In 2022, the Palo Alto Police Department, in California, reversed its policy of encrypting police radio communications and restored real-time access for the public and the press. The reversal came after the department had encrypted its radio feeds in January 2021, citing a state memo that required the protection of personal identifying information.

New York should learn from that example. At a time when trust in institutions is fragile, blocking information — especially during emergencies — only fuels suspicion and confusion. It invites misinformation to fill the vacuum, and puts lives at risk.

Journalists are not adversaries of public safety. In many cases, they are its allies, helping to get accurate information to people who need it. Whether it’s a car crash that shuts down the Southern State Parkway or a threat that necessitates a school lockdown, the public has a right to know — and know quickly.

Hochul has long described herself as a defender of open government and transparency. Now she has a chance to prove it.

House, to reconvene Congress, negotiate and end this disgrace.

Also, I hope King will address the president’s manner and words in dealing with people. Shouldn’t a president try to unite people, and not mock and insult them, as he

has done on many, many occasions and probably will continue to do?

I look forward to those columns.

opinions

When Long Island changed history

Long Island is well known for its beaches, the Hamptons, our pizza places and diners. But we harbor certain secrets — places where generally unknown events shaped history in big ways.

I stumbled on one several years ago, and it triggered the writing of my newest novel, “The Einstein Conspiracy.” It’s a historic thriller based on actual events that occurred on Long Island just as the world was descending into World War II. The secret I uncovered was actually hidden in plain sight: a modest cottage overlooking a harbor on the North Fork. I’d read that Albert Einstein rented the home in the summer of 1939, and there he composed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt that changed the world.

The letter itself is well known to followers of Einstein. He and a colleague,

Letters

We need journalists now more than ever

To the Editor:

Your editorial in the Oct. 16-22 issue, “Real journalists, reporting real stories,” on the vital importance of journalism, resonated with me. I subscribe to three newspapers: the Herald, Newsday and the Daily News. I am a strong believer in the First Amendment, and the power and freedom of the press. We need you now more than ever.

The skepticism for the media lies in the current regime’s constantly labeling it “fake news.” It’s only “fake” when it doesn’t conform to the regime’s edicts. The man in the White House is unilaterally imposing his will, bullying universities, corporations, law firms and the press, and sending troops into states to suppress crime that doesn’t exist.

Our democracy is fragile. We must continue to use our voices and peacefully protest the eroding of our rights and freedoms, the inhumane treatment of non-criminal immigrants, and so much more, lest we become an autocracy. I will continue to support the press, and I thank you for your truth, integrity, honesty and hard work.

MARGUERITE WESTBROOk Lynbrook

Leo Szilard, drafted it to warn FDR that Germany was researching the production of an atomic bomb, and that the science of a chain reaction leading to massive destruction was feasible. At that point, the Holocaust was expanding in intensity, and Germany was planning war across Europe. While an atom bomb in Hitler’s arsenal was unthinkable, the United States government had no serious research program.

My fascination with that cottage ignited the spinning of my own imagination. I spent two years researching Einstein’s stay on Long Island. He arrived on the North Fork on May 1, 1939, right after giving a speech on opening night of the World’s Fair in Flushing. He brought his rickety 14-foot sailboat, which was named Tinef — Yiddish for junk, trash or rubbish. He sailed the Peconic, shopped locally, strolled on the beach at Nassau Point, played the violin with the neighbors. Einstein’s life wasn’t entirely idyllic. He had fled deadly persecution by the

Nazis, including several threats on his life. In America he sought freedom and tolerance. But it wasn’t long before Hitler’s dark shadow reached him.

A fter Albert Einstein spent some quality time in a cottage here, we built the bomb.

In February 1939, a proNazi rally in Madison Square Garden attracted 20,000 people. In Yaphank, 32 miles from Einstein’s North Fork cottage, the Aryan residents of a restricted neighborhood flew swastika flags, trained children to be American storm troopers and named their roads after Hitler, Goebbels and Goering. The community campgrounds were used for pro-Nazi demonstrations and rallies. They were so popular that the Long Island Rail Road ran a train from Penn Station called the Camp Siegfried Special. Meanwhile, in New York City, the FBI pursued an extensive, widespread network of Nazi spies seeking to penetrate our military facilities, defense plants and government offices.

As a member of Congress, I occasionally dabbled in the arts of spin and embellishment. The skill came in handy

FrAmework by Tim Baker

in the writing of “The Einstein Conspiracy.” In the weeks after my first encounter with the old Einstein cottage — now privately owned — I began my own spinning of a novel that pits two FBI agents against a Nazi undercover agent trying to stop Einstein from warning Roosevelt about Hitler’s bomb. It’s based on real places, people and events.

Nearly three months after Einstein and Szilard began drafting their letter, it was finally delivered to FDR on their behalf. A mutual friend insisted on reading it aloud in the Oval Office. The president responded, “What you are after is to see that the Nazis don’t blow us up.” That night, a committee was formed to coordinate a response. An embryonic atomic research program was organized to race Adolf Hitler to an atom bomb.

In time, it became known as the Manhattan Project.

Conceived right here, on Long Island.

Steve Israel represented Long Island in Congress for 16 years, and now owns Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay. Information on his latest novel is available at einsteinconspiracy.com. He is currently on a national book tour.